Understanding Information Literacy

Abstract

There is a growing concern that users cannot retrieve and evaluate information that will be required for problem solving and decision making, that is, they are not information literate. This paper examines the way information literacy should be understood. Alternative models which can be applied are introduced. It also outlines what an information literacy curriculum should entail. A number of resources to support the program are suggested. The paper concludes that the information literacy question is a complex one.